The Best of Enemies

In partnership with the Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of FloridaBy Mark St. Germain
Based on the book THE BEST OF ENEMIES by Osha Gray DavidsonGoldman Theater

Based on a true story about the relationship between a hate-filled leader of the KKK and an African-American civil rights activist, the unlikely pair must work together during the 1971 desegregation of Durham, NC schools. A stirring new play that exposes the poison of prejudice and the beauty of friendship.

Parental Guidelines

The Best of Enemies is set during a racially-tense period in the desegregation of Durham, North Carolina schools. The play includes very racist and mature language, mild violence, and adult themes. The play is best suited for ages 13 and up. Click here for more specific parental guidelines.

"...under the direction of Mark Routhier, actors Avis-Marie Barnes and Richard B. Watson find layers in these adversaries. Barnes has a depth of conviction that grounds her character, and under Watson's hate — look for it — is a tinge of fear and a touch of bewilderment. They are beautiful characterizations….Don't be surprised if you shed a tear or two by play's end. You're not crying for the characters. The emotion is for the high ideals of humanity: progress, peace, hope. They are ideals worth celebrating, and this worthy play does just that."- Matt Palm, Orlando Sentinel

“Director Mark Routhier adds to the tension by keeping characters so close they could choke each other. But he uses every square inch of the intimate Goldman Theatre, creating what becomes for the audience an immersive experience with a walloping catharsis. In other words, don’t miss this. It’s strong, you’ll need a box of tissues, but it’s powerful theater that holds a mirror up to our history. Produced in partnership with the Holocaust Memorial Center and Education Center, this production of “Best of Enemies” begs the question: When will our hearts and our minds really be won?” - Pam Harbaugh, Florida Today

"St. Germain's script is packed with wisdom, wit, and wise-ass one liners… Rothier's valiant production evokes every possible audience response. Rothier also succeeds in unearthing the humor in what easily could have become a melodramatic period piece. I found myself laughing more during this production than I have in the recent past with billed comedies. Sometimes we can't help but laugh at our own follies as a society…..THE BEST OF ENEMIES at Orlando Shakespeare Theatre is humming at full speed, raising the bar for theatre in Orlando." - Broadway World

“Overall, a wonderful production. I was a little apprehensive, expecting perhaps a strident polemic on race relations; but I was disarmed by the humor and generous depiction of the characters involved." - Audience Comment

Special Event Performance - October 26, 2014

This special ticketed event includes pre-show hors d'oeuvres and drinks prior to the performance. All proceeds benefit the Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida.

Tickets: $100
General Admission Seating

Reception: 6:00 p.m.
Performance: 7:30 p.m.

To reserve your seat for this special performance, call 407-447-1700 or purchase online.

TICKETS

TICKETS

Section A

$45

Section B

$35

Section C

$20

Student Rush

$12

Advanced Student Discount and Military Discount - $10 off, only available in sections A and B